Laptop Power Bank Canada
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Whether you’re navigating through a national park or blasting some tunes at a backyard BBQ, a reliable, powerful yet portable charger is essential for staying connected to your entertainment, friends and to-do list while you’re on the go. This is even more vital if, like mine, your phone is a few years old and the battery dies so quickly it needs to be charged at night and again partway through the day. Show
A low battery indicator without access to an outlet nearby can be stressful, so in this guide we discuss what you should look for and list the best power banks available in Canada. For background information, see our comparison table and buying advice. Best power banksBest power banks comparison
Best portable 5,000 mAh – Anker A1109
Anker offers an 18 month warranty on power banks and seems to stand behind their products after analyzing reviews from over a dozen of their models, we found numerous instances of them sending replacements to customers whose products appeared to be faulty after they provided video evidence and followed some minor testing steps. Anker even followed up to ensure that the new unit was working properly in some cases. Charge speedIt does not have fast charging, but instead Anker’s PowerIQ 1.0 which pushes up to 12W of power. Size & weight vs capacityPacks a lot of charge in a small package. It’s small enough to fit in any pocket or bag and you won’t likely notice the added weight – making it very portable. It is perfect for any long day where you’re worried your phone might die such as a long hiking trail, day at an amusement park or a concert late into the night. DesignSlightly larger than Anker’s Mini 3350mAh Lipstick-Sized Charger and about as long as a soda can. There are 3 lights on the side to indicate the charge remaining and a single button that must be pressed for charging to start. The Anker logo is discretely embossed on the side. Best fast charging (QC) 10,000 mAh – Anker A1266
Charge speedWith Quick Charge 3.0, it can push 18W of power – 1.5x as fast as the A1109. Size & weight vs capacityIt is about the same length as the A1109 with twice the width and about a third thinner so it will still fit well in your pocket. For only 50 more grams than the A1109 and weighing about as much as a typical smartphone you get twice the capacity – enough to charge most recent phones twice. DesignThe lateral edges are semi-circular and there are 4 blue lights on the front face to indicate the charge level. Best budget 20,000 mAh, lightning cables – AUKEY PB-N36
We tested this power bank by taking it on a canoe trip to keep our phones charged – draining it completely. On another occasion, we powered a small Bluetooth speaker to play music during a picnic in the park. After analyzing over a dozen of their products and thousands of reviews, we found that Aukey, like Anker, do an impressive job of ensuring that customers who report receiving lemons quickly receive replacement units with little to no friction. Their customer service is so good that it is often mentioned in customer reviews. They also offer a longer warranty on their products – 24 months instead of 18. Charge speedWhile it does not have fast charging, it pushed out up to 10.8W to charge my (now ancient) Nexus 5 (2300 mAh) from dead to full in 1 hour and 5 minutes which is fast enough for most situations and did so 6 more times before running out of juice. One of its most unique features is that it has accepts Lightning cable input which means that after charging your phone, you can flip around the same USB-A to Lightning cable and use it to recharge the power bank. The unit recharged in 16 hours via a USB to wall outlet charger. Size & weight vs capacityIt can fit in larger pockets (such as in athletic or cargo shorts), but its weight makes it uncomfortable to do so for long periods of time. Ease of useMost come with a small USB to micro USB cable which is long enough to charge a phone close by and in my case, the battery came with 75% charge in it so I was able to plug it in right away. However, when it comes time to charge the power bank itself, unless you have a USB port handy and are willing to wait for it to charge slower, you have to acquire a longer charge cable and a USB to wall outlet charger – both sold separately – to reach an outlet and take full advantage of the maximum charging speed. One small gripe I had was that you have to remember to push the power button after plugging in your device for it to start charging. While this likely saves a lot of energy in the long run by not having to ‘check’ if a device is connected to the ports and is user error rather than the unit’s fault, I still forgot the extra step a couple of times and came back to a dead phone instead of a charged one. An “always-on” option would be useful. DesignWhile it doesn’t catch your eye, I don’t think a battery bank should. It has a sleek and minimalist design with an embossed logo, 1 button, 1 seam along the middle, corners rounded only in 1 direction and an approximately phone-sized profile (length and width – not height/thickness). Small scratches are not as noticeable thanks to the slightly noisy matte black colour. It feels solid and the weight is well distributed. It has 4 small green indicator lights that tell you the charge remaining in 4 increments: 100%, 75%, 50% and 25%. Compared to others on this list, it is missing a digital display to provide more specific metrics including charge and discharge rates and time remaining. The unit comes with a 24 month warranty and it is clear from reading through the many reviews that Aukey stands behind its product – replacing faulty units for free with minimal friction. For around $10 more, you can get their slimmer, sleeker version. Best fast charging 20,000 mAh – RAVPower RP-PB201
Charge speedThe USB-C PD port which can push up to 60W and the Quick Charge USB port pushing up to 18W can be used at the same time – perfect for charging a laptop and phone at high speeds simultaneously. This is 5.5x and 1.75x faster, respectively, than the Aukey PB-N36. Recharge times range from 3 hours if using a PD (30W) wall adapter (which is not included and doesn’t have to be their’s) to 12 hours if using a standard USB-A charger. Size & weight vs capacityWhile very similar in size (25% less wide and 25% thicker), weight and with the same capacity as the Aukey PB-N36, you’ll end up paying almost twice as much for the addition of the fast charging abilities (and a USB-C). DesignWhile it is another black ‘brick’ with a lightly textured low-sheen finish, I really like how they grouped the power button, input and output ports and 4 indicator LEDs into a recessed cut-out on one of the corners. It makes it stand out a bit and allows the other corners and edges to stay rounded. Best for multiple devices 26,800 mAh – Anker A1277
Charge speedConnect up to 3 devices at the same time as fast as is possible for devices that are not compatible with fast charge standards with Anker’s PowerIQ. If you have 2 Micro USB cables handy, you can plug them both in (2 x 10W input) to recharge the unit twice as fast – just over 6 hours. Size & weight vs capacityIt’s weight is exactly as expected for a unit of its capacity and it is only 1 to 2 inches longer and wider than the 20,000 options while maintaining a conveniently slim 2.2 cm thickness. One reviewer pointed out that based on their testing, this unit only provided 23% more juice than the very popular 20,100 mAh version compared to the 33% extra power you would expect based on the rated capacity. DesignAll the ports fit (barely) on one end. It features Anker’s seamless rounded sides, 4 blue indicator lights and the power button is on one of the rounded sides instead of the front face. Best fast charging 26,800 mAh – RAVPower RP-PB058-2
Charge speedThanks to fast charging technology, the USB-C is powerful enough to charge most laptops and a Nintendo Switch while it is being used. The same port can re-charge the unit 4 to 5 hours – 8 to 10 hours shorter than it would take a non-fast charge unit of the same size. Size & weight vs capacityIt’s weight is on par, but it is almost 6 cm (70%) wider and 1.5 cm (64%) thicker than the Anker A1277, making it much less portable. DesignIts thickness, double seam and lack of fully rounded corners make it look a bit puffier and more brick-like and the printed on logo is a bit in-your-face. Best with wall AC outlet – Omni 20+ 20000mAh
Charge speedThis is the most versatile all-in-one charge bank. You can charge it while charging a laptop, phone, tablet and camera all at the same time. The 60W DC output is fully adjustable in 0.1W increments, the 100W AC outlet is perfect for supplying AC to DC chargers to devices such as laptops and drones and having the option to wirelessly charge is a bonus. It can recharge in 3 hours thanks to accepting up to 45W input. Great for those who travel far and wide with multiple devices (photographers, journalists, adventurers, influencers, etc.). Size & weight vs capacityIt weighs a little more than the next size up (26,800 mAh), but its overall size is about the same which is impressive considering the features included. Its 12 x 12 cm profile makes it unsuitable for pockets, though it is otherwise very portable. DesignSold separately or as part of a full bundle that includes a USB C-C, USB A-C fast charger with international outlet adapters and a protective case, the unit is compact, almost square and its beveled corners make it really stand out – like a powerful piece of networking equipment. The small screen packs in a lot of information including charge remaining, power in, out, temperature. Though it could use a ‘time remaining to full’ feature and some reviewers say it is the first thing to break. Best high capacity – MAXOAK K2-50000mAh
Charge speedIt has many ports including one for laptops (with many adapters provided), but each will charge at a slow to medium rate. The unit can only be re-charged using the outlet to barrel port charger provided, but it does so in a very respectable 6 to 8 hours. Size & weight vs capacityAs you might expect, since weight is proportional to capacity, this unit is more than twice as heavy, twice the size (of non-fast charging options) and has and has almost twice as much capacity as any other option on this list. At 185 Wh it is over the 160 Wh hard limit of most airlines, so don’t expect to be able to take it on a flight. DesignIt’s big, silver and looks like an old DVD player. You’re not buying it for its looks. Best solar power bankCansumer does not recommend any power banks with a single built-in solar panel. With a typical output of 1W to 2W, the solar panel is not large enough to produce enough output to sufficiently charge a power bank over the course of a full day of sunlight. After reviewing the descriptions and reviews of over 10 solar power banks, we found that most specified that relying on the solar panel for charging was for emergency use only, the output capability of the panel was missing or in the small print and many reviewers described the feature as being a gimmick. The typical output current is between 120 to 250mA which means it would take approximately 40 to 83 hours to charge a 10,000 mAh the battery from 0% to 100%. Assuming the 5 sun hours per day average across Canada, that means 8 to 17 full days of sunshine. Instead, it is better to buy a good power bank and charge it with a standalone portable solar charger with at least 15W output such as the Anker 21W 2-Port USB Portable Solar Charger (more below) or the BigBlue 5V 28W Solar Charger. This is especially true if you’re planning to be off-grid for longer periods of time such as for camping or hiking. A solar compatible power bank such as the Omni 20+ 20,000 mAh has an adjustable DC voltage output (or AC outlet) and supports pass through charging so you can charge devices while charging the power bank with a solar panel which is important. Best solar charger – Anker AK-A2421011
Charge speedThe maximum 21W output and 2 USB-A allow 2 devices to charge at the same time. However, it won’t hold a charge by itself – it must be paired with a separate battery such as one of the ones on this list. Size & weight vs capacityThe design is thin and lightweight making it easy to pack away. When folded the 3 solar panels fold 28.3 x 16 x 2.8 cm. When completely unfolded flat they are about 28.3 x 64 x 0.5 cm. Weighing about as much as a 20,000 mAh power bank, between the two you’re looking at adding another 800g to your loadout. DesignThe panels are secured by a polyester canvas that provides some moisture and scratch resistance when folded up, but it is not waterproof. The 4 eyelets on the corners allow you to easily hang or secure the charger to a tree, backpack or tent. Best wireless charger – AUKEY PB-WL03
This newly released Aukey 20,000mAh Wireless Charger appears to be a great all-in-one power bank that has wireless and fast charging, a large capacity and a phone stand all in package that will fit in your pocket. Charge speedWhile its wireless charging isn’t as fast as wired chargers and uses up more energy for the same recharge level, it can still push a respectable 10W wirelessly and the USB-C port is both PD 3.0 and QC 3.0 compliant and can push 18W. Both ports can be used as outputs at the same time to supply up to 3 devices simultaneously, but the unit does not support pass through charging. It is comparable to the Anker 20000 A1281 on this list in both specs and price, but you also get the added feature of wireless charging. Size & weight vs capacitySimilar in size to other 20,000 mAh options, it can fit in your pocket. They have crammed more into the same space as it is certainly denser – about 100g heavier. This puts it closer to the weight of 26,800 mAh units. DesignThe flip-out stand and flip-out holder allow you to rest your phone against the charge pad at an angle so you can continue to watch, study or play on your phone – perfect watching a movie on an airplane or a tutorial while doing homework and since it is approximately the size of a phone, almost all of it will be hidden behind your phone’s screen. The small LCD displays the charge percentage remaining. The rounded corners and edges and eggshell sheen finish make it look slick, but don’t cause it to stand out. What to consider when looking for a power bankCompatibility with your device, charge cablesThe current standards for ports and charge cables are: USB-A (“USB”) to micro-USB, USB-C or Lightning. The USB-C form factor is quickly taking over Micro USB as the standard as it is flippable (unlike Type A and Micro), smaller than Type A and bi-directional, meaning it can transmit both power (up to 100W) and data (video, audio, etc.) in either direction. These advantages have led manufacturers of new phones, tablets and laptops to include only a single USB-C port.
The port types determines both compatibility and maximum charging speed. Most battery packs will have 1 to 2 USB-A ports for output and at least 1 of Type C, Micro and Lightning for input. Only some packs will have USB-C output so double check that if you want to use your USB-C to USB-C cable. It may take some time, but it is expected that all of our electronics will eventually rely on USB-C at which point you’ll have to replace your old cables with a USB-C to USB-C cable that will work for everything, which would sure be convenient. However, USB-C or not, you’ll still need to buy a separate USB-A to wall outlet adapter or USB-C to wall outlet adapter if you want to plug your charge cords into the wall and maintain the same charge speed. Capacity vs size & weightWhile more capacity is better, it comes at the cost of the unit being larger and heavier. Most smartphones have a capacity of 3,000 to 4,000 mAh, so expect any-pocket-sized 5,000 to 10,000 mAh units to re-charge your phone completely 1 to 2 times and weigh about as much as a smartphone (150 to 200g). If you need more juice than that, a 20,000 mAh battery will fit in a larger pants pocket, jacket pocket, purse or bag and will weigh anywhere from as much as a can of soup (350 to 400g) and a 26,800 mAh battery will weigh about 500g. Any units above that capacity will likely need a backpack or dedicated carrying case to transport conveniently. True capacityUnfortunately, advertised capacities do not accurately reflect their true charging capability. A 10,000 mAh battery won’t be able to charge a 2,000 mAh from 0% to 100% 5 times. Number of charges does not equal power bank capacity divided by a device’s battery capacity. Why is this? First, the advertised capacity in mAh is based on the 3.7V rating of the internal batteries. For example, 10,000 mAh @ 3.7V. However, the standard USB operating voltage is 5V, so the voltage must be converted (increased) from 3.7V to 5V before being output. When increasing the voltage, the capacity must also be converted (reduced) inversely proportional to the change in voltage. To calculate theoretical USB capacity, you can use this simple equation: Estimated actual capacity (USB @ 5V) = 3.7V/5V x [Advertised mAh] In addition, electronics are not 100% efficient – some energy is used and lost as heat during conversion and transmission. A quality power bank will be around 95% efficient when converting from 3.7V to 5V (this can be much worse for cheap/low-quality brands). Then, your phone has a charging circuit that takes 5V and converts it to 4.2V for charging the battery, which is about 95% efficient. The total efficiency impact is about 10%. We’ve gone ahead and calculated some of the most commonly advertised capacities:
So as a general rule, the effective capacity of a battery is actually about 66% to 75% of the advertised capacity. Here are the battery sizes of some recent phones to give you an idea of the recharge capacity required. For example, a 10,000 mAh power bank can fully recharge an iPhone 11 2 times.
In Canada, power banks less than 100 Wh are generally allowed in carry-on. 100 to 160 Wh units are generally allowed in carry-on with airline approval up to a maximum of 2 per person, according to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA). Sizes above that are not allowed in carry-on and storing any size in checked baggage is allowed only with airline approval. Check the specific airline’s restrictions (for example, Air Canada’s). In the US, according to the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA), passengers are allowed up to 2 spare 101 to 160 Wh lithium ion batteries or 1x 300 Wh battery. They are not allowed in checked baggage. Check the specific airline’s restrictions. For example, at a common output voltage of 5V, the 100 Wh soft limit results in a maximum size of 20,000 mAh. The hard limit of 160 Wh results in a maximum size of 32,000 mAh. Wh = V x (mAh / 1000) Charge speedCharging speed is determined by the lesser of the:
To increase the power transferred (and therefore the charging speed), the amperage or voltage can be increased as: Power (Watts) = Voltage (Volts) x Current (Amps). The power transferred is determined primarily by the types of ports as well as the charging standard that both devices share. To charge a phone quickly or keep up with usage by higher-powered devices such as a Nintendo Switch or Macbook, you’ll want one that has fast charging. The 2 most popular standards are USB Power Delivery (PD) and Qualcomm’s Quick Charge (QC): USB Power DeliveryUSB Power Delivery is a standard that enables 2 devices to negotiate and agree on the maximum compatible power (up to 100W) that can be provided to charge a device the fastest. This allows a single USB cable to flexibly supply power to a wider range of devices including phones, hard drives, printers, tablets and laptops in either direction (ie. a phone could charge another phone). If your phone is charging your power bank, check your owner’s manual to see how the direction of power flow can be reversed – for some brands you press and hold the button for 5 seconds. USB PD is separate from USB generation (2.0, 3.0) and form factor (A, C, Micro). Not all USB-C devices are USB 3.1 and not all USB 3.1 have Power Delivery. Quick ChargeQuick Charge is a widely implemented charging standard by Qualcomm found in smartphones, car and wall chargers. It speeds up charge times by negotiating and dynamically increasing the voltage while monitoring current and temperature to prevent damage to the battery. QC 2.0 can increase the voltage to 9V or 12V while QC 3.0 can boost voltage to anywhere from 3.6V to 20V in smaller increments to charge a 4,000mAh battery to 80% in 35 min – up to 4 times faster than a conventional USB 3.0 charger.
Pass through and wireless chargingPass-through charging means the unit will let you charge a device and charge it at the same time – simultaneously receiving input and providing output. This is very useful for power users who find both their battery and phone running low at the same time. Wireless charging is a newer technology using the Qi standard that allows you to charge devices over distances of up to 4cm without a cable via inductive power transfer. As long as both are Qi compatible, all you do is place the device on top of the battery pack. While this feature is increasing in popularity, it is still uncommon. Over to youWhat size power bank are you looking for and what type of phone do you have? What do you think of our reviews? Let us know in the comments below! |
